My aim was to come close to the ingredients of VetRX as much as possible that was affordable, because when you source quality essential oils they can be quite expensive.
My first step was to write out the list of ingredients from the product.
Since I was only making my version for respiratory relief I could omit Canadian Balsam and Camphor. After so much investigating into these couple of ingredients I was almost ready just to get the Vick's Vapor Rub out instead. As an applicator these two ingredients would be necessary, but not necessary for inhalation. The application method has its value too, but not for this experiment.
I broke it down to two main essential oils in the ingredients which are Rosemary and Oregano.
I then added one extra oil to that, Thyme.
Rosemary
Rosemary is said to stimulate hair growth, boost mental activity, immune system booster, relieve respiratory problems and aid in pain relief. Rosemary oil also has antiseptic qualities. Proven effective for respiratory infections. The oil is antispasmodic and is therefore used in some case of bronchial asthma.
Oregano
Oregano helps fight infections and great as a digestive aid. Commonly used for infections of the urinary tract, yeast, respiratory, fungal and parasites. High in zinc, magnesium and vitamins C and E.
Thyme
Helps to aid recovery from chest infections and coughs. Antispasmodic, antiseptic, antibacterial, and stimulates the circulation, digestion, nervous system, hormones thus aiding the whole metabolism.
How To Administer
When I have sick chicken I isolate her from the other poultry in a quarantine coop or inside the house or shed in a pop-up pet tent. Respiratory relief is then administered by a diffuser in that confined space to maximum effect - free of draught.
I used the Uniwide 1.3L Ultrasonic LED Air Humidifier & Duffuser which has a small oil compartment tray on which I placed three (3) drops each of each of the essential oils. Make sure not to over fill the water container or it will not diffuse.
If I have a hen in a pet tent I lay a sheet or blanket over the top to keep the vapor surrounding the sick hen.
I let it diffuse for approximately half an hour which completely eased the hens wheezing and coughing.
Using essential oils or VetRX alone is not enough to help a chicken recover from a bronchial infection. This method only aids to soothe and speed up recovery. Please contact your local vet as soon as you discover any of your poultry with a respiratory issue. Look for signs of nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing and the sound of a chest infection.
My hens were treated with a five day course of Alamycin La injections once a day in conjunction with the essential oil treatment.
If symptoms persist after medication and essential oil diffuser, investigate the quarantine enclosure for signs of mold particularly under the flooring materials or in walls. I did find mold growing in one quarantine coop, cleaned it out thoroughly and no more respiratory issues were heard afterwards.